Online banking - nervous about the idea

I was listening to some computer expert today on Down to Business on Newstalk 106. He reckons that there are at least 16 different types of spyware on your average PC. These watch every key stroke you make, record your passwords and send all the information back to someone who can use them.

I've always been nervous about the idea of online banking but this has certainly put me off. I think I'll stick with an ordinary current account and telephone banking.


Murt

title edited slightly by ajapale

Re: Online banking

Would Windows XP negate most of this spyware? Or is there any other way to make banking online more secure?

Anti-spyware software

Murt,

Microsoft released a beta of some anti-spyware software. I downloaded it a couple of weeks ago and it detected and removed about 6 such programs from my PC. Here's the link to the download:

Re: Anti-spyware software

The topic of spyware and keeping your pc clean is discussed in some depth here :

In summary, if you are concerned about security when using your pc:

1. Keep your Operating System Up to Date.
2. Operate a good Anti Virus Program and keep the Virus Definition Files up to date.
3. Operate a good Anti Spyware Program (or two) and keep the definition files up to date.
4. Operate a firewall and keep an eye on whats happening when you are on line
5. Use robust passwords (plenty of random letters and numbers) and change them on a regular basis.
6. Use mozilla Firefox as a browser instead of Microsoft Intenet explorer.
7. Dont keep credit card and banking details or passwords in text files on your desk top.


ajapale

Murt,

I good starting point is to sharpen your paranoid.

When you have that done remember to be afraid, very afraid.

You are right to be worried.

Head as far away from Microsoft as you can get.

Any of ye had a look at the Mac mini ?


eDog


P.S. If you secure your client side is it enough ? How secure do you think the Bank systems are ? eh ?

Sweet Dreams